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From Coffee to Collaboration – the LS8 Meet-up Year in Review

Jonathan Winston Jonathan Winston
2 min read
This blog is more than 1 year old

The LS8 Meet-up, founded by Winston Solicitors in early 2023, has flourished into a key networking initiative for businesses in North Leeds. With coffee, croissants, and community at its heart, the group continues to support local enterprises and charitable causes. Hosted at the Leeds Deli in Roundhay, the meet-ups offer a relaxed and productive setting for meaningful connections.

This year, the LS8 Meet-Up gained even wider recognition, with a feature in the Yorkshire Post highlighting its innovative approach to networking and community building. Places are limited and a recent surge in interest has seen our waiting list grow. It goes to show how many people are interested in community-based initiatives to both grow their businesses and support their local economy. 

By the Numbers: LS8 Meet-Up 2024 Achievements

As we reflect on another successful year, the impact of the LS8 Meet-Up is clear:

  • 6 Meet-Ups Held  
  • Nearly 100 attendees joined us across the year.  
  • 60+ Businesses Represented, ranging from startups to established enterprises, including many from LS8 and surrounding North Leeds areas.
  • 6 charities supported
  • Over £400 donated
  • Countless Connections Made

Feedback from attendees reveals strengthened relationships and collaborations that will benefit the community for years to come.

“I like the informal nature of the events. The open structure allows me to say a quick hello to people I've met before, to make new connections and to linger in longer conversations when inspired. I've found needed resources in the room, have become a client for a few people and gained a client or two along the way as well. It's perfect, I wouldn't change a thing!”

Business & Community Thriving Together

The LS8 Meet-Up champions the ethos that “people buy from people.” The events provide a platform for businesses to network informally, fostering meaningful relationships rather than focusing solely on sales pitches. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with attendees appreciating the laid-back environment and opportunities to connect authentically.

“I meet truly local business people who I keep in mind for future referrals. I like to keep business local.” 

Charity remains a cornerstone of the LS8 Meet-Up. Each event features a raffle, with proceeds donated to a charity chosen by the previous year’s winner.  

This year, funds raised supported causes close to the community:

Looking Ahead to 2025

he LS8 Meet-Up’s success is a testament to the collaborative spirit of North Leeds businesses. As we plan for another exciting year, we aim to grow our network further and continue supporting local charities and enterprises.

To join the LS8 Meet-Up or learn more, contact Leonie Donne at ldd@winstonsolicitors.co.uk.

Here’s to another year of fostering connections and giving back in North Leeds 

Client feedback

I could not recommend highly enough James at Winston’s Solicitors. He has been professional, understanding and supportive throughout. Excellent communication, which was always timely and clear. The continuing health care funding process is extremely complicated to navigate alone but with James’ knowledge and support it took a great deal of stress out of it. Thank you!
Rachel
I had a lot of trouble with purchasing a house due to external reasons. Through the entire timeline Olivia was always keeping me updated, and responded fast to emails, something you don't get very often from solicitors! She did her best to meet deadlines and I genuinely felt they cared about the sale for me
Reece
We had a great experience with Leasa, who acted for us during our property purchase. She was quick, efficient, professional, and kept everything moving smoothly. We really appreciated her support throughout the process and would highly recommend her services.
Benjamin
Second time using Olivia at Winston Solicitors and once again she delivered. Impeccable service and completed my remortgage within the desired timeframe. Efficient, straightforward and simple.
Rowena
Cannot recommend highly enough. The stress was taken out of everything. No brainer. No fee's to outlay upfront. No win no fee does exactly what it says. Was kept informed throughout and both Debbie and Amanda who looked after my case were very professional and a pleasure to deal with. Have no hesitation in recommending.
Lisa
We are first time buyers and were new to the process of buying a house but our solicitor, Leasa, explained everything clearly to us and was the best solicitor we could wish for in this situation: She was super efficient, thorough, and we had great communication throughout, which was extremely useful. Things got done fast and to a high standard, and Leasa was able to spot things the seller's solicitor wasn't. Everything was super quick and within the timeline we set, so we can highly recommend this firm and have done so to friends who are also buying a house, five stars!
Anonymous
Conveyancing process only took a couple of months, always informed, never had to chase anything up.
Joe
Excellent, responsive and professional service
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